These days, many women find themselves struggling with female urinary incontinence. This condition occurs when a woman perceives the need to pass urine and cannot contain the urge. Thus in an instance of female urinary incontinence, there is an involuntary release of urine. This leakage can range from large loss of fluid to a small dribble. Urinary incontinence is problematic because it can cause hygiene problems and emotional distress.
At Associates in Women’s Health in Cincinnati, women’s health is our top priority. We help with varying issues concerning gynecology and urinary incontinence as well as aesthetic services to help you look and feel your best. If you’re suffering from urinary incontinence or other gynecological issues, AIWH can help. Contact us today to schedule your appointment, and we help create a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Stress Incontinence
Stress incontinence is the most frequently identified kind of incontinence. As noted in Patient, this form of incontinence transpires when the pressure in the bladder becomes too great for the bladder outlet to withstand.
Typically, the cause of stress incontinence is weak pelvic floor musculature. The urine will frequently leak out during an instance of coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. On these occasions, there is an extra pressure exerted within the abdomen as well as on the sufferer’s bladder. During these instances, small or copious volumes of urine can come out. In many cases, the reason a woman’s pelvic floor muscles have become weak result from giving birth. Unsurprisingly then, stress incontinence is most common in females who have had numerous children. It is also more common amongst the elderly and obese.
Urge Incontinence
Urge incontinence is the second most frequently cited type of incontinence. This form involves an overactive or unstable bladder. The individual experiences a sudden urge to urinate, and the urine sometimes leaks before she has time to reach the toilet. In these cases, the woman’s bladder muscle has contracted too soon and the normal range of bladder control is limited.
Generally speaking, the cause for urge incontinence is unknown. However, it is speculated that the individual’s bladder muscle may be giving the brain the wrong messages such that the bladder feels fuller than it is. In some cases, urge incontinence is caused by nervous system challenges (in the spinal cord, brain, and other regions of the sufferer’s body). The diseases that affect an individual’s nervous system are referred to as neurological disorders. Oftentimes, individuals who have specific neurological disorders (such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease) experience urge incontinence.
Overflow Incontinence
Overflow incontinence transpires when urine outflow is blocked. The block precludes the normal process of emptying the bladder. This causes a pool of urine to continually remain in the sufferer’s bladder, and it is referred to as chronic urinary retention. In cases of chronic urinary retention, pressure starts building up behind the obstruction. Once this happens, the sufferer’s normal emptying process begins to malfunction and urine starts to leak occasionally. Causes of overflow incontinence include blockages of the urethra from scar tissue, urinary stones, swelling from an infection, or tumors. (While women can experience this form of incontinence, it is more prevalent in men.)
Conclusion
As made plain by the data listed above, female urinary incontinence can be a troubling experience. However, a plethora of natural and synthetic solutions exist. If you feel that you or a woman you love is experiencing female urinary incontinence, be sure to consult with a trained medical professional for diagnosis and treatment.
